Rhode Island Home Modification Funding Sources

Once Oakley Home Access does our home assessment and determines the proper modifications for each individual person, the question we are asked most frequently is, “How can we pay for these modifications?” Thankfully there are several different funding sources for most people to consider if they are not able to pay out of pocket. Home modifications and aging in place are much less expensive alternatives to long-term care facilities and the process of finding funding is something that we can help with also. In this blog we are speaking of Rhode Island sources, but if you are located outside of Rhode Island, we are sure that there are similar programs in your own state.

• RI Livable Home Modification Grant. State-funded program offering to pay for 50% of up to $5000 worth of Home Modifications and/or home accessibility equipment including ramps and stairlifts. Application found at www.gcd.ri.gov.
• State-run Medicaid. If an individual receives RI Medicaid benefits they may be eligible for waiver programs funding Stair Lifts & Ramps. We are State approved providers and can check on eligibility and bill the state directly.
• Neighborhood Health Plan. If an individual has NHP as primary or secondary insurance and it is managed by Integra, they may be eligible for Stair Lifts & Ramps. Prescription and letter of medical necessity is required by physician. We are providers so can work with NHP for authorization and billing.
• Long-Term Care Policy. If an individual carries a LTC policy, they will most likely be aware of it because it is very expensive. It generally covers nursing home residency. Therefore, the insurance companies would much rather pay for home modifications for aging in place versus footing the bill for approximately 100,000 per year for residency at a nursing home. Simple reimbursement process.
• National MS Society. Members are often eligible for thousands of dollars’ worth of equipment with a simple application and letter from physician confirming diagnosis.
• ALS Association of RI. Members are each eligible for $1,500 towards purchase of stair lift and a wide variety of home care benefits.
• Infantile Paralysis Association. Individuals with Polio have a funding option which often puts thousands for wheelchair ramps and various adaptive equipment.
• Travis Roy Grant. This grant is for accessibility equipment for individuals with Spinal Cord Injuries. Eligibility requirements includes the individual cannot be born with impairment to qualify. Simple application along with contractor proposal and doctor’s note required.
• Other Disability Organizations. We always encourage health care providers and individuals alike to advocate and contact any disability organization or support group they may be involved with in order to inquire regarding funding for home modifications. Worst that can happen is they say No. If the answer is no, be sure to ask what benefits they DO offer.
• Life Insurance Policy. Individuals who carry life insurance policies that include a “Living Benefit” may sometimes be able to borrow against their award and cover home modifications.
• Home Modification Lines of Credit. Individuals with equity in their homes may inquire about using that to fund home improvements. All of our services/equipment would be eligible for this type of loan.
• Worker’s Compensation. Individuals rehabilitating due to a work-related injury and being covered under an active claim are eligible for home modifications to prevent further injury and create home access.
• AAA, AARP, YMCA, & Veteran’s Discounts Available

We know that there is a lot of information contained here. To answer further questions or to get started on your home modification project, please contact our office at  Oakley Home Access at 401-429-3882.